Buzz
Even if you share a close bond with the couple, deviating from their registry to give a more personal gift can send unintended messages. Studies indicate this approach often backfires.
Morgan Ward, a marketing professor at Southern Methodist University, explains that close friends often bypass the registry to emphasize their unique relationship with the couple. However, Ward’s research reveals that recipients interpret these gestures in a negative light. NPR’s Shankar Vedantam elaborates:
...close friends ignore our preferences to demonstrate their closeness, but this action conveys the opposite message. It suggests they don’t respect our stated desires, implying they know better than we do about what we truly want.
The reality is, couples invest significant time in selecting items to kickstart their new life together. Ignoring their choices, even with good intentions, can come across as dismissive. If you wish to add a personal touch, consider pairing it with a gift from their registry. For more insights, check out the full story at the link below.
Image captured by Blaise Alleyne.
